Influence of different flow regimes on the performance characteristics of a four-pad hydrostatic squeeze film damper loaded between pads

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the influence of different flow regimes on the dynamic characteristics of four-pad hydrostatic squeeze film dampers (SFDs) loaded between pads. Design/methodology/approach A numerical model based on Constantinescu's turbulent lubrication theory using the finite difference method has been developed and presented to study the effect of eccentricity ratio on the performance characteristics of four-pad hydrostatic SFDs under different flow regimes. Findings It was found that the influence of turbulent flow on the dimensionless damping of four-pad hydrostatic SFDs appears to be essentially controlled by the eccentricity ratio. It was also found that the laminar flow presents higher values of load capacity compared to bearings operating under turbulent flow conditions. Originality/value In fact, the results obtained show that the journal bearing performances are significantly influenced by the turbulent flow regime. The study is expected to be useful to bearing designers.